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Microsoft seeks to build another Iowa data center

June 21st, 2013 by Ric Hanson

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) – Microsoft is the latest business planning to build a massive data center in Iowa as the state continues to attract some of the biggest technology companies looking for a place to expand their computer processing and storage abilities. Microsoft is proposing to spend more than $670 million on another West Des Moines data center. The company is seeking $20 million in tax credits to create about 30 jobs. The Iowa Economic Development Authority on Friday was considering approval of the incentives.

Already Microsoft, Facebook, and Google have chosen Iowa for data centers. Microsoft’s total investment is expected to exceed $1 billion in Iowa with the new project. Industry consultants say Iowa offers plentiful, inexpensive electricity and policies that alleviate millions of dollars in property and sales taxes.